2 Chronicles 3:13

So the total wingspan of these cherubim was twenty cubits. They stood on their feet, facing the main room.

Study Bible

So the wings of these cherubim
The cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In Hebrew, "cherubim" (כְּרוּבִים, keruvim) signifies a class of angels that serve as guardians of sacred spaces. The wings symbolize divine protection and the ability to swiftly execute God's will. In the context of the temple, the cherubim's wings represent the encompassing presence of God, suggesting that His protection and majesty cover the entire sanctuary.

extended twenty cubits
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Thus, twenty cubits would be about 30 feet or 9 meters. This significant span emphasizes the grandeur and magnificence of the temple's design, reflecting the glory and majesty of God Himself. The vastness of the wingspan signifies the all-encompassing reach of God's presence and His readiness to shelter His people.

They stood on their feet
The posture of the cherubim, standing on their feet, indicates readiness and vigilance. In the Hebrew context, standing is often associated with service and readiness to act. This imagery conveys the idea that the cherubim are ever-prepared to serve and protect the holiness of the temple, symbolizing the constant vigilance of God over His dwelling place and His people.

facing the main hall
The main hall, or the nave, is the central part of the temple where the congregation would gather. The orientation of the cherubim towards the main hall signifies their role as guardians of the sacred space, ensuring that the holiness of the temple is maintained. This positioning also symbolizes the focus of worship, directing attention towards the presence of God. Historically, this reflects the centrality of worship in the life of Israel, where the temple served as the focal point of religious and communal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cherubim
Angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In the context of Solomon's Temple, they symbolize divine protection and the holiness of God's dwelling place.

2. Solomon's Temple
The first temple in Jerusalem, built by King Solomon as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for Israelite worship.

3. Main Hall (Holy Place)
The larger room in the temple where the priests performed daily rituals. It was separated from the Most Holy Place by a veil.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim in the temple remind us of the holiness and majesty of God. They serve as a visual representation of His divine presence and protection over His people.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The construction of the temple signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. It foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity through Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Reverence in Worship
The detailed description of the temple's construction, including the cherubim, calls believers to approach worship with reverence and awe, recognizing the sacredness of God's presence.

The Role of Sacred Spaces
While the physical temple was central to Israelite worship, believers today are reminded that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, calling for a life of holiness and dedication to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What is the significance of the cherubim's wings extending twenty cubits, and how does this reflect the grandeur of God's presence in the temple?

2. How does the presence of the cherubim in Solomon's Temple connect to the cherubim described in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and their role in guarding sacred spaces?

3. In what ways does the construction of Solomon's Temple and its furnishings, including the cherubim, point to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the true temple (John 2:19-21)?

4. How can the reverence and care taken in building the temple inspire us to approach our own worship and relationship with God today?

5. Considering that our bodies are now temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), what practical steps can we take to ensure that we honor God with our lives as sacred spaces?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-22
Describes the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing their role in symbolizing God's presence.

1 Kings 6:23-28
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the cherubim in Solomon's Temple, highlighting their size and orientation.

Ezekiel 10:1-22
Offers a vision of cherubim, illustrating their role in God's heavenly court and their association with His glory.